Kelsey Kroon
Tell us about your work/research. What kinds of things do you do?
I specialize in logistics and field operations in remote and extreme environments, supporting scientific research in places like Antarctica, Alaska, and the North Pacific Ocean. My work includes coordinating the transport of personnel and equipment to critical research sites, such as the South Pole and WAIS Divide, ensuring safe and efficient operations in some of the world’s most challenging conditions. I’m also a filmmaker with a focus on environmental storytelling, having worked on wildlife documentaries and created my own film about the salmon's journey up the Kenai River. Whether I’m managing logistics for research teams, capturing the beauty of nature through film, or supporting conservation efforts, my work revolves around facilitating scientific exploration and raising awareness of our planet’s ecosystems.
What sparked your initial interest in your career?
My initial interest in my career was sparked by a deep desire to travel and experience the world in a meaningful way. I’ve always been drawn to problem-solving and creativity, and I’ve sought to build a career that allows me to do both. Filmmaking has been an exciting way for me to explore the world, capture unique perspectives, and share stories through my own lens. Whether it’s documenting local community issues or supporting scientific research, my work has been driven by curiosity and the joy of discovering new opportunities. I’ve always been motivated by the idea of connecting people to places and stories they may not otherwise encounter, and I see my career as an ongoing journey to do just that.
Who influenced you or encouraged you the most?
The person who has encouraged me the most in my career by and large is Erin Ranney. She has been a Nautilus Video Engineer for a few years now and has been a dear friend for a lifetime. Erin is a wildlife camera operator for her 'on land' job and has shown me such support over the years. Erin is the definition of 'rise as you climb' and has gifted me the kindness of opening doors I could've never reached without her turning the key first. She has pushed me to say yes to the things my confidence would've had me saying no to, and has allowed me to grow on a career path I always felt wasn't for someone like me. Erin has always shown compassion and joy while simultaneously being the most able person in the room. I am in awe to this day that she is my friend as well as mentor and have her to thank for so much more than I could ever hope to put here.
What element of your work/study do you think is the most fascinating?
The most fascinating thing to me is the chance to observe and witness incredible places all over the world. I think I was most changed by and thankful for my time with the Adelie penguins and Weddell seals on the Ross Ice Shelf in Antarctica. That gave me such a clear path into my career now, realizing how much I loved to sit behind a lens and pair that with my love of nature. To be able to pair those two things has been the gift of a lifetime.
How did you get involved with the Ocean Exploration Trust?
Erin Ranney thought I could be a good fit for the internship with my background growing up on boats and knowledge of cameras through my time in my masters program and making student films for the course. After feeling more confident in myself this past year, I finally sent in the application and I think I still need to pinch myself to make sure this is really happening!
What other jobs led you to your current career?
I've had a mix of random past jobs, but a main one is my art studio. I've worked as a professional artist for almost 10 years now painting and making sculptural work with marine waste and fishing debris. My love for the natural world pairs so well with the desire to document it and share what it has to offer with others.
What are your degrees and certifications?
Bachelor of Arts in Justice and Minor in Psychology - University of Alaska Anchorage 2019; Masters in Wildlife Filmmaking - University of the West of England Bristol 2024; FAA Pilot Part 107 Drone Pilot
What are your hobbies?
Creating art is definitely my main hobby. I use fishing waste and other marine debris to make hanging sculptural art to show that we can reuse what we normally see as trash and reduce our footprint in many ways. I've owned my own art company for almost 10 years now and use it as an outlet for me to process the stages in my life and the world around us.
What advice would you give someone who wants to have a career like yours?
I feel like I'm still discovering my career but I do think it's most important to explore your life goals. Write out exactly what you want from life and work backwards. Where do you want to be, what do you want to see and do? Look up jobs in those areas, see who has your dream job now and follow their journey. What skills can you learn to be better prepared for the applications? If you're denied the first time, try again, and again until the time is right for you. Rejection is a big part of contract work and creative fields. It's okay to be told no. It's a great skill to be able to fail and learn from it. I'm a firm believer in things happen for a reason, it's okay for your path to be unique to you.
